Music at weddings

Q: We would like to get your opinion on playing music at weddings (mainly instrumentals). There are differences in opinion in Hadith and from Moulanas that we consulted.

A: Music whether in weddings or at any other venue is Haraam at all times. All instruments of music are Haraam. This is proven from authentic Ahaadith. The view of its permissibility at weddings is a false interpretation. There is NO difference of opinion amongst the Ulama on this matter. Those who ‘differ’ do so because of succumbing to their own whims and desires. Amongst the reasons why music is Haraam are as follows:

Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that he had been sent to destroy musical instrument. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) would close his ears when he walked past a sound of music. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that it is KUFR to listen to music and derive pleasure from it. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said that music sows hypocrisy in the hearts just as water sows the seeds.

The interpretation of these and many other Ahaadith on music are clear and not ambiguous to give rise to any ‘difference of opinion’.